Mentee: Nikki Zangenah
Mentor: Dr. Julia Riley
Northwestern University
My Skin of Color Society Observership experience was nothing short of incredible. I had the opportunity to spend a month rotating with Dr. Julia Riley and the amazing team at Northwestern. Before starting my observership, Dr. Riley took time to learn about my goals and passions within dermatology and thoughtfully created a schedule centered around my interests. Given our shared interest in hidradenitis suppurativa, Dr. Riley made sure I had as much time as possible in HS clinic, and I observed a deroofing procedure for the first time (definitely a highlight of the month!).
Through rotating in Northwestern’s Center for Ethnic Skin, I had the honor of learning from experts in the field and seeing Chicago’s diverse patient population. I also gained a breadth of exposure in general dermatology and subspecialty clinics, including rheumatologic dermatology and vulvar dermatology. When Dr. Riley learned of my interest in inpatient dermatology, she went out of her way to arrange for me to join the consult team – another highlight of my experience. Attending daily didactics and departmental events like Grand Rounds and Journal Club allowed me to connect with residents and appreciate the warm, collaborative culture at Northwestern. It also strengthened my understanding of dermatologic conditions and introduced me to diagnoses I was unfamiliar with. My clinical skills and fund of knowledge within dermatology continued to grow over the course of the month, and I cannot express how grateful I am to the entire department for all of the teaching and clinical pearls.
Throughout my observership and beyond, Dr. Riley has been the most incredible mentor and role model, and I am inspired by her as a physician, researcher, and educator. Just as she made me feel comfortable and a part of the team from day one, I saw how her warmth extended to patients, making them feel heard and supported at every opportunity. It was incredibly impactful to witness Dr. Riley’s thoughtful approach to patient care and learn from her expertise in skin of color dermatology and hidradenitis suppurativa. Dr. Riley also provided invaluable insights and early career advice that helped me visualize the kind of career I hope to have in academic dermatology, integrating my passion for rheumatologic dermatology, health equity, and medical education.
I extend my deepest gratitude to the Skin of Color Society for this incredible opportunity; Dr. Riley for hosting my observership and continuing to be the most genuine, caring, phenomenal mentor; and all of the faculty, residents, and staff at Northwestern for making me feel welcomed and supported the entire month. My SOCS Observership was without a doubt one of the greatest experiences of my medical school journey, and I will forever be immensely thankful. I feel so fortunate to have learned from Dr. Riley, and even more so to have her in my corner as a lifelong mentor. I only hope that I can one day pay forward to others the incredible mentorship I have received from Dr. Riley.